At a Glance
- Tasks: Lead design coordination and manage complex commercial projects from start to finish.
- Company: Ambit, a specialist fit-out contractor known for excellence and collaboration.
- Benefits: Gain exposure to challenging projects and clear career progression opportunities.
- Other info: Work in a dynamic environment with a focus on continuous improvement.
- Why this job: Join a team that values integrity and teamwork while transforming innovative designs into reality.
- Qualifications: Experience in design management or technical coordination, with strong problem-solving skills.
The predicted salary is between 50000 - 65000 £ per year.
ABOUT AMBIT
Ambit is a specialist fit-out and refurbishment contractor delivering high-quality commercial interiors across the UK. We focus on the technical delivery of workplaces, transforming design concepts into fully realised spaces with precision, efficiency, and craftsmanship. Known for our problem-solving mindset, collaborative approach, and commitment to excellence, we partner with clients, designers, and consultants to deliver complex projects safely, on time, and to the highest standard.
THE ROLE
The Design Manager will play a key role in the delivery of a complex commercial Cut & Carve project, reporting into a Senior Design Manager on their first project within Ambit. From the outset, the successful candidate will be expected to take ownership of defined design packages, managing coordination, technical output, and programme alignment, while working within an established project structure. The role provides exposure to Ambit’s approach to delivery and standards, with the expectation that the individual will progress quickly into a fully autonomous Design Manager position on future projects.
KEY RESPONSIBILITIES
- Design Coordination & Package Ownership
- Take ownership of allocated design packages from pre-construction through to completion
- Review and interrogate design information to ensure buildability, compliance, and coordination
- Manage day-to-day coordination with architects, consultants, and subcontractors
- Lead elements of Design Team Meetings and drive actions to maintain programme alignment
- Cut & Carve Technical Delivery
- Manage design interfaces relating to structural alterations, strip-out works, and existing building constraints
- Coordinate integration of new services and fit-out packages
- Identify design risks and coordinate timely resolution, escalating key issues where appropriate
- Ensure technical solutions are practical, compliant, and aligned with project constraints
- Programme & Commercial Alignment
- Contribute to and manage elements of the Design Release Schedule (DRS)
- Ensure design deliverables are issued in line with construction sequencing and procurement requirements
- Support review of design solutions to ensure alignment with cost, programme, and buildability
- Provide input into pre-construction and tender activities where required
- Stakeholder Management
- Act as a coordination point between consultants, internal teams, and subcontractors
- Support client-facing activities, including design reviews and presentations
- Maintain clear communication on progress, risks, and deliverables
- Work collaboratively with Project Management and Commercial teams
- Quality & Compliance
- Ensure all design outputs meet Ambit standards and regulatory requirements
- Manage and track design changes across allocated packages
- Support the production of coordinated and technically robust design documentation
SKILLS & EXPERIENCE
- Technical & Industry Experience
- Experience in a Design Manager, Assistant Design Manager, or Technical Coordinator role
- Background in commercial fit-out, refurbishment, or Cut & Carve projects
- Strong understanding of building regulations and construction detailing
- Experience managing design packages within a live project environment
- Software & Tools
- Proficient in Revit
- Experience working within coordinated drawing and BIM environments
- Core Competencies
- Strong coordination and organisational skills
- Ability to manage workstreams with accountability and minimal oversight
- Good technical problem-solving capability
- Confident communicator across multiple stakeholders
APPROACH & EXPECTATIONS
- Takes ownership of deliverables and drives outcomes
- Comfortable operating within a structured project team on first assignment
- Escalates issues appropriately while maintaining momentum on packages
- Demonstrates the capability to step into a fully independent Design Manager role
WHY JOIN AMBIT
At Ambit, we take pride in building spaces that help organisations thrive. Joining our team means becoming part of a culture that values integrity, teamwork, and continuous improvement. You’ll gain exposure to complex, technically demanding projects, with a clear pathway to leading your own schemes and taking full ownership of design delivery.
Design Manager in Luton employer: Ambit
Ambit is an exceptional employer that fosters a culture of integrity, teamwork, and continuous improvement, making it an ideal place for a Design Manager to thrive. With opportunities to work on complex, technically demanding projects across the UK, employees benefit from a clear pathway to leadership roles and full ownership of design delivery, all while collaborating with a dedicated team committed to excellence.
StudySmarter Expert Advice🤫
We think this is how you could land Design Manager in Luton
✨Tip Number 1
Network like a pro! Get out there and connect with industry professionals, attend design events, and join relevant online forums. The more people you know, the better your chances of landing that Design Manager role.
✨Tip Number 2
Show off your skills! Create a portfolio that highlights your best work in commercial fit-out and refurbishment projects. Make sure it’s easy to navigate and visually appealing – first impressions matter!
✨Tip Number 3
Prepare for interviews by researching Ambit and understanding their approach to design delivery. Be ready to discuss how your experience aligns with their values and how you can contribute to their projects.
✨Tip Number 4
Apply through our website! It’s the best way to ensure your application gets noticed. Plus, we love seeing candidates who take the initiative to engage directly with us.
We think you need these skills to ace Design Manager in Luton
Some tips for your application 🫡
Tailor Your CV:Make sure your CV reflects the skills and experiences that align with the Design Manager role. Highlight your experience in commercial fit-out and your technical problem-solving capabilities to catch our eye!
Craft a Compelling Cover Letter:Your cover letter is your chance to shine! Use it to tell us why you're passionate about design management and how your background makes you a perfect fit for Ambit. Be genuine and let your personality come through.
Showcase Relevant Projects:If you've worked on similar Cut & Carve projects or have experience managing design packages, make sure to mention these in your application. We love seeing real examples of your work and how you’ve tackled challenges.
Apply Through Our Website:We encourage you to apply directly through our website. It’s the best way to ensure your application gets into the right hands and shows us you’re serious about joining the Ambit team!
How to prepare for a job interview at Ambit
✨Know Your Design Packages
Before the interview, make sure you thoroughly understand the design packages you'll be responsible for. Familiarise yourself with the specifics of Cut & Carve projects and be ready to discuss how you've managed similar packages in the past.
✨Showcase Your Problem-Solving Skills
Ambit values a problem-solving mindset, so prepare examples that highlight your ability to identify design risks and implement practical solutions. Think about challenges you've faced in previous roles and how you resolved them.
✨Communicate Clearly and Confidently
As a Design Manager, you'll need to coordinate with various stakeholders. Practice articulating your thoughts clearly and confidently. Be prepared to discuss how you maintain communication and manage relationships with architects, consultants, and subcontractors.
✨Demonstrate Your Technical Knowledge
Brush up on your understanding of building regulations and construction detailing, especially in relation to commercial fit-out projects. Be ready to discuss your experience with Revit and how you've used it in coordinated drawing and BIM environments.
